Jesus is our role model:
“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV)
We have examples of many saints who had laid their lives for Gospel sake for us to follow. Above all, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ who thought about the future joy and glory and set His mind to get it, by enduring the death on the Cross and the shame. In going through all that, He gained His place at the right hand of God. He expects us to follow His footsteps to get glory and honour for ourselves to be seated with Him. Those who really endure their own personal cross and shame can only be rewarded.
Discipline of the Father:
“You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.”” Hebrews 12:3-11(NKJV)
It is very surprising to see that teaching like this people reject nowadays. But if you are born again children of God and not trained or following all the rules given by God, you will be illegitimate children according to the word of God. In some translations it is given, you will be children of a prostitute. So it is very essential that we should go under rigid discipline to mature properly.
Discipline like soldiers or athletes:
“No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops.” 2 Timothy 2:4-6 (NKJV)
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV)